A-3935/A-1501

Requires public school districts to provide a daily recess period for students.

NJEA is proud to support S-1501 (Turner) / A-3935 (Wagner, Eustace, DeCroce). This bill would require public schools to provide a minimum of 20 minutes a day of recess for children in grades kindergarten through five.

Research shows that there is a direct link between physical activity and learning. As schools struggle to find more time during the school day to incorporate the rigorous academic curriculum mandated by the state, studies show that students also need the chance to absorb all that they are learning. Physical activity during recess provides that time, as well as the opportunity to increase their physical, social and emotional well-being.

S-1501 / A-3935 also stipulates that students cannot be denied recess due to punishment, unless as a consequence of harassment, intimidation or bullying. Also, recess cannot be used in place of physical education class or take place immediately before or after a student’s physical education class.